Welcome to the
Upper West
Region
About Upper West Region
Capital
Wa
Population
0.9 million
Regional Size
18,476 km square
The Upper West Region of Ghana, with a population of approximately 901,502, is one of the country’s smallest regions, yet it boasts significant tourist attractions, including historical sites related to the slave trade and wildlife sanctuaries.
The region has a rich history as a major route for trans-Saharan trade, evidenced by numerous mosques in the capital, Wa, including the ancient Sudanese mosques in Nakore and Dondoli. Key historical sites include the 16th-century Waa Naa’s Palace, showcasing impressive Sudanese architecture, and the Slave Defence Wall in Gwollu, built to protect locals from slave traders.
Visit Wa
Natural Attractions
Ancient caves in Bulenga, Dahili, and Sankana served as refuges during the slave raids. The region also features slave camps and a market in Kassana. The Wechiau Hippopotamus Sanctuary is a community-based eco-tourism project that preserves wildlife along a stretch of the Black Volta River, offering unique experiences like staying at the Hippo Hide Tree House.
Cultural Events
Festivals are integral to life in the Upper West Region. The Paragbiele Festival, celebrated by the Tumu people, showcases local produce and features music and dance in gratitude for agricultural blessings. The Dumba Festival, celebrated by the Wala people, includes a ritual assessing the chief’s fitness to rule, marked by a daring leap over a tethered cow.
Caftmanship and Architecture
The region is known for its craftsmanship, including spinning, weaving, pottery, and musical instrument production. Local festivals often highlight these crafts. The distinctive architecture includes rectangular mud houses, adapted to the regional climate, differing from the round huts common in the Upper East Region.
Access and Wildlife
Visitors can reach the Upper West Region by flying to Tamale and then travelling by road. The Gbelle Game Reserve, located south of Tumu, is a notable wildlife habitat, home to various species, including endangered birds and large herds of roan antelope.
Languages
Predominant languages in the region include Dagaare, Birifor, Sisaala, Wali, Lobi, and Vagla.
Major Attractions
Key attractions in the Upper West Region include the Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary, Gwollu Slave Defence Wall, Nakore Ancient Mosque, Gbelle Game Reserve and Wa Naa’s Palace.
